11 Outdated Loyalty Programs People Still Miss
From punch cards to stamp books, these nostalgic loyalty programs once made shopping feel extra rewarding, and people still talk about them today.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Long before digital apps and QR codes, loyalty programs were simple and satisfying. Whether it was collecting stamps, clipping proofs of purchase, or swiping plastic cards, these old-school systems actually made customers feel valued. Let’s revisit 11 bygone loyalty programs that shoppers still remember fondly.
1. S&H Green Stamps
Cayobo on Wikimedia Commons
Customers collected these little green stamps with every purchase, pasting them into booklets to redeem for merchandise. Grocery stores, gas stations, and even department stores participated.
2. McDonald’s Monopoly
Mike Mozart on Flickr
Each purchase earned peel-off game pieces with the chance to win anything from fries to a new car. People went nuts collecting the right combo of board pieces.
3. Marlboro Miles
Pig Missy on Flickr
Smokers once saved “miles” printed on Marlboro cigarette packs to exchange for branded gear. Jackets, tents, and duffel bags proudly displayed the logo.
4. Pepsi Points
ARMcgrath on Wikimedia Commons
Pepsi drinkers could rack up points by buying sodas and redeem them for apparel and gadgets. It became infamous after a marketing stunt involving a fighter jet, but the gear was genuinely cool.
5. Blockbuster Rewards
Jonathan Rolande on Flickr
Regular renters were treated to free rentals, coupons, and first dibs on new releases. The yellow card felt like a VIP pass for movie lovers. As Blockbuster faded, so did its once-beloved perks.
6. Coke Rewards
Aranami on Flickr
Bottle caps and codes from Coca-Cola products could be entered online for gift cards, sweepstakes, and merch. It kept people loyal to the brand and added a digital twist to the collecting experience.
7. Kmart Blue Light Specials
Mr Stan Zemanek on Wikimedia Commons
These surprise discounts were part game show, part shopping spree. Loyal shoppers waited for the flashing blue light and the call over the PA system.
8. Frequent Buyer Bookstore Cards
Pixabay on Pexels
Independent bookstores and chains like Borders handed out punch cards — buy 10 books, get one free. Simple and satisfying, it encouraged true reader loyalty.
9. Toys “R” Us Geoffrey Dollars
Phillip Pessar on Flickr
These colorful reward coupons could be earned and spent like cash at any location. Kids especially loved receiving them after making a purchase.
10. Coffee Shop Stamp Cards
Nick Webb on Flickr
Before mobile apps, it was all about the cardboard punch card — buy nine cups, the tenth’s on the house. You kept it in your wallet like a trophy.
11. Supermarket Proof of Purchase Programs
Donald Trung Quoc Don (Chữ Hán: 徵國單) on Wikimedia Commons
Cut out barcodes or receipts to redeem for kitchenware, sports gear, or limited-edition collectibles. It made grocery shopping feel like a slow and steady mission.